For the most part, I've had my fill of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems mostly exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. However, the platform's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Impressive Rhythm and Character Growth
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking opening sequence in which a calm family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking stranger emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately followed by a flashback, giving viewers to observe the family prior to the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly allows viewers enough time to get to know the primary personalities prior to the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a married mother with a former best friend, Karina, is now married to Nes' father—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a rift between the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet socially awkward, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. The family head consists of Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and he appears to care about just two things: his work and his wife to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their interpersonal drama to the point I nearly overlooked this was a horror film—something that could seem like a negative, yet ultimately worked well. The Elixir spends a considerable amount of the film depicting us who each family member represents, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing traits allowed me to relate with the characters enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a genuine surprise once events eventually go wrong.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama with somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt shift toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to settle into its world prior to everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Zombification Source
The film also offers a fairly interesting explanation regarding the origin of the spreading transformation. Rather than a unintended lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition originates in a new batch from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted a little more time on how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to producing a lethal potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the lack of background, the impact this condition has on humans proves utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it works. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI also appear quite realistic, and are almost certain to trigger one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out scenes are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are a few instances of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), but for the most part, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the face, pierce it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like prey caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in end-of-world films. It's clear, Nes loves her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building for years. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable since the movie doesn't try to push the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes the moments where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the ending must be said to be a bit stereotypical. The Elixir doesn't truly offering up some profound message regarding relatives or community, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're successful scares, and because the film allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome is an engaging and entertaining
